Jurgen Klopp has confirmed he is in discussions over becoming Germany's next manager following Julian Nagelsmann's resignation after the country's disastrous World Cup campaign.
The former Liverpool boss has emerged as the overwhelming favourite to take charge after Germany's shock exit to Paraguay brought Nagelsmann's reign to an abrupt end.
Klopp, who has been working as a television pundit for German broadcaster Magenta TV during the tournament, admitted contact has already been made with the German Football Association but warned there are still significant hurdles before any appointment can be completed.
"Yes, I can confirm the talks," Klopp said on Magenta TV.
"Things moved pretty quickly. Julian stepped down. The DFB are looking for a successor. And they're talking to me."
The 59-year-old has been serving as Red Bull's Head of Global Soccer since leaving Liverpool in 2024, following a trophy-laden spell at Anfield that included ending the club's 30-year wait for a Premier League title.
That contract means any move to the Germany job would require discussions with his current employers before an agreement could be reached.
Klopp admitted those conversations are now likely to play a crucial role in determining whether he returns to the dugout.
Jurgen Klopp has confirmed he is in discussions over becoming Germany's next manager following Julian Nagelsmann's resignation after the country's disastrous World Cup campaign
|GETTY
"Time. I'm under contract with Red Bull. I've said I'm interested in the talks," he explained.
"They will be intensive because this isn't only about Julian Nagelsmann.
"I also have to speak with Oliver Mintzlaff. He's my employer. We've already touched on a few things.
"I assume he won't stand in the way. I've been there for 19 months. It was an intense time.
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Every team to have won the World Cup | GETTY/GB NEWS"I'm ready. Once the talks begin, your mind starts racing. We have to change things fundamentally."
Nagelsmann stepped down after Germany's humiliating Round of 32 defeat to Paraguay, a result that extended the nation's miserable run at World Cups since lifting the trophy in Brazil in 2014.
The former Bayern Munich coach is set to receive a reported £6million severance package following his departure.
In a statement announcing his exit, Nagelsmann admitted the disappointment of the campaign had made his position untenable.
"The decision was anything but easy for me," he said.
"My top priority has always been the success of the team. After such a bitter disappointment, it deserves the chance of a new beginning.
"I am sorry and hurt from the bottom of my heart that we disappointed you and couldn’t give you any more football nights at this World Cup."
Julian Nagelsmann was sacked after Germany's exit from the World Cup
| GETTYDespite replacing him appearing to be a genuine possibility, Klopp was quick to defend Nagelsmann's work, insisting Germany's problems stretch far beyond one individual.
"There will have to be intensive discussions, because, of course, the problems we currently have cannot be pinned only on Julian Nagelsmann," Klopp added.
"Julian is an exceptional coach, and he will be able to prove that time and again throughout his coaching career."
Germany's latest World Cup collapse means they have now suffered three disappointing tournaments in succession since their triumph in 2014, while Nagelsmann also departs having overseen a quarter-final exit at Euro 2024.